Question:
I know it's a repair website, but replacement is the accepted norm when it comes to these, so this issue boils down to finding a suitable replacement most of the time. I had a good unit (photoelectric, made by Honeywell, if I recall correctly), but was too lazy to troubleshoot it, so I replaced it with the only unit I could find that worked on 120 VAC. Demonstration by a company that wanted to sell me half a dozen units (including 2 wind-up heat type) revealed the ionization unit I have should have been replaced with another photoelectric type. These seem impossible to find at Wallyworld or home improvement stores. Worse yet - I would prefer a dual unit that works on 120 VAC and have seen recommendations for units that use both detection systems and include a heat sensor too. Some internet research seems to indicate the following: Cheap units are just that, cheap - and mostly ion only. There are seemingly no (non-commercial) dual detection units on the internet Non-commercial photodetection units seem to be limited to units without specs, or with poor specs. There seem to be no references for any non-commercial units to any agencies which either test or publish verified specifications by testing. Some commercial units are out there, but there is invariably no pricing information accompanying them, and all seem to be microprocessor controlled types (hi $$$$$$ ?). Has anyone found a good photoelectric type smoke detector or dual unit available in 120 Volt model suitable or targeted for the home market? If not, is there a commercial unit suitable for same? Is there an agency that tests smoke detectors that publishes findings?

Answer: I have both types . 1st a honywell alarm system hard wired with heat sensors in the kitchen and basement near the boiler. and smoke detectors through out. They also have statis lights and magnetic testing. Heads can be easily swapped out if bad. The alarm sounds interior and exterior. And honywell has a call fire dept policy, not checking with the customer , as time can be critical. I also have lighted and non lighted battery units throughout for backup. Lighted to see to the door. Dual function ? I dont know. I just sent you copies of Consumer reports ratings for smoke detectors and Co alarms, let me know if you dont receive it, I quit smoking 6 days ago so I dont have much patience